Dharmanagar by-election sees crucial EVM and VVPAT randomization under strict supervision. Transparent allocation via EMS ensures fair polls in North Tripura, with political parties and candidates closely monitoring the secure electoral process.
In a step toward ensuring a free and transparent electoral process, the first phase of randomization of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units is set to take place in Dharmanagar under North Tripura district on Friday.
The District Election Officer (DEO) will oversee the randomization process, which is a crucial preparatory measure ahead of the upcoming by-election. This process will be conducted using the advanced EVM Management System (EMS), ensuring impartial allocation and minimizing any scope for bias or manipulation.
According to official sources, representatives from all recognised political parties will be present during the randomization exercise. Their presence is aimed at enhancing transparency and building trust among stakeholders regarding the integrity of the electoral process.
The first randomization determines the allocation of EVMs and VVPATs to specific constituencies. Once the process is completed, a detailed list of the machines assigned constituency-wise will be shared with all participating political parties at the district headquarters. This ensures that all stakeholders remain informed and can verify the allocation independently.
Following this stage, the allocated EVMs and VVPATs will be handed over to the respective Returning Officers for further election-related procedures. These officers will be responsible for deploying the machines during polling while adhering to strict guidelines laid down by the Election Commission.
To maintain the highest level of security, all randomized EVMs and VVPATs will be stored in designated Strong Rooms within the respective assembly constituencies. These Strong Rooms will be sealed and monitored under tight security arrangements, with political party representatives allowed to remain present during the storage process to ensure accountability.
Officials emphasized that the entire procedure is being conducted in accordance with established electoral protocols to guarantee fairness and credibility. The use of EMS technology further strengthens the process by introducing automation and eliminating human discretion in machine allocation.
After the final list of contesting candidates is prepared, the details of the first randomized EVMs and VVPATs will also be shared with all candidates. This additional layer of transparency ensures that every participant in the electoral contest is aware of the process and has access to relevant information.
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The move reflects the Election Commission’s continued commitment to conducting elections that are not only free and fair but also transparent and accountable. As the Dharmanagar by-election approaches, such measures are expected to bolster voter confidence and uphold democratic values in the region.
